What is the best way to clean your windows at home?
Crystal Clear: A Simple Guide to Cleaning Windows at Home
Clean windows can instantly brighten your home, letting in more natural light and giving your space a fresh, polished look. Whether you’re tackling a spring-cleaning project or just want to enjoy the view, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your windows like a pro—without the streaks.
🧰 What You’ll Need
- Bucket of warm water
- A few drops of dish soap or white vinegar
- Sponge or microfiber cloth
- Squeegee (optional but highly recommended)
- Dry lint-free cloth or paper towels
- Towel to protect your floors
- Optional: spray bottle for DIY solution
☁️ Step 1: Choose the Right Day
Avoid sunny days! Bright sunlight can cause your cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks behind. A cloudy day is ideal for window cleaning.
🪟 Step 2: Prep the Area
- Remove curtains, blinds, or any window coverings.
- Lay a towel on the floor to catch drips.
- Dust the window frame and sill with a dry cloth or vacuum.
🧴 Step 3: Make Your Cleaning Solution
You can use a store-bought glass cleaner, but a homemade mix works just as well:
- Option 1: 2 cups water + 1/2 cup white vinegar
- Option 2: Warm water + a few drops of dish soap
Pour into a spray bottle or use directly from a bucket.
🧽 Step 4: Wash the Windows
- Dip your sponge or cloth into the solution and wring it out.
- Wipe the window in a circular motion, starting from the top.
- For very dirty windows, you may need to repeat this step.
💦 Step 5: Rinse and Dry
- Use a clean, damp cloth to rinse off any soap or vinegar residue.
- Dry the window using a squeegee in a Z-pattern or a lint-free cloth.
- Buff out any remaining streaks with a dry microfiber cloth.
🌿 Bonus Tips
- For outside windows, rinse first with a garden hose to remove loose dirt.
- Use an extendable squeegee for hard-to-reach areas.
- Don’t forget to clean the window tracks and frames!